Hey future innovators and science enthusiasts! Are you dreaming of a career that explores the vast reaches of space or contributes to cutting-edge technology right here in South Africa? Well, get ready, because the South African National Space Agency (SANSA) has an incredible opportunity just for you!
The SANSA Postgraduate Bursaries for 2026 are designed to empower bright, young South Africans like you to pursue advanced degrees in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields. SANSA wants to build a pool of highly qualified professionals who can contribute to South Africa’s growing space industry and national development. This bursary is your ticket to making a real impact!
Who Can Apply?
SANSA is looking for dedicated postgraduate students (Honours, Masters, and Doctoral) who are passionate about STEM. To be eligible, you need to meet a few key requirements:
- You must be 32 years old or younger.
- You need an academic average of at least 65% for your most recent year of study or last examination.
- You must be studying towards a postgraduate qualification in relevant science areas, including (but not limited to):
- Remote Sensing & GIS: Applied Remote Sensing, Applied Remote Sensing & GIS, Geographical Information Systems, Geoinformatics, GIS & Remote Sensing, Information Systems & Remote Sensing.
- Environmental & Earth Sciences: Botany, Ecology & Resource Management, Environmental & Science, Environmental & Geographical Science, Environmental & Water Science, Environmental Geology, Environmental Management, Environmental Science, Geographical & Environmental Science, Geographical Science, Geography with Remote Sensing and/GIS, Geography & Environmental Management, Geography and Environmental Science, Plant & Environmental Science, Statistical Ecology.
- Engineering & Technology: Computer & Electronic Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Electronic Engineering, Information Technology, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Information Systems.
- Core Sciences: Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, Energy studies, Physics, Space Science.
What Does It Cover?
While the exact details of the coverage depend on the level of study and SANSA’s allocation, a SANSA Postgraduate Bursary typically provides financial support for your academic journey. This means it helps cover costs associated with your postgraduate degree, allowing you to focus on your studies and research without the added financial stress. It’s all about investing in your potential!
How to Apply?
Ready to launch your application? Here’s what you need to do to ensure your application for the SANSA Postgraduate Bursaries 2026 is complete and considered:
- Submit your full, official university academic record from your first year of study, including your final year or mid-year 2025 results.
- Provide an official undergraduate university student account statement or an official letter confirming NSFAS funding for your undergraduate study fees (if applicable).
- Include a copy of your ID, certified within 3 months of your application submission.
- If you’re applying for a Masters or Doctoral degree, you must include a testimonial from a lecturer or your proposed supervisor.
- Masters applicants need to upload a draft proposal (no longer than 2 pages).
- Doctoral applicants need to upload a draft proposal (no longer than 4 pages).
- Make sure all proposals are signed and dated by both you and your proposed supervisor.
Important Note: Please ensure all your documents are submitted correctly and are not encrypted or password-protected. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
For more information and to submit your application, make sure you visit the official SANSA Bursaries webpage:
Visit the Official SANSA Bursaries Webpage
If this sounds like the perfect launchpad for your academic and career goals, don’t wait — apply now! Your journey into the exciting world of space science and engineering could start here. And remember, Bursaries Room is always here to help you explore more amazing funding opportunities!
